House budget includes $63 million for Kihei High construction

The Hawaii State House of Representatives passed a proposed budget that includes $63 million for the next phase of construction for Kihei High School, marking the single largest DOE appropriation on Maui.

“These are huge numbers for one district, and it shows my colleagues’ commitment to our long-awaited school,” said Representative Kaniela Ing (D-South Maui) who has been working on the project throughout his time in the legislature. “The project is moving smoothly, and we are well on our way.”

The current status of the high school is as follows:

Construction began in 2015 after substantial legislative funding and support from the governor.

Groundwork to dig wells and construct an access road was completed in 2016.

After additional funding in 2016, the next phase of site construction was awarded to Goodfellow Bros. and is slated to begin this year or early 2018.

The funds in the new proposed budget could be released as early as July 2017 for the next, most substantial, phase of construction.

“If the Senate approves this budget, the legislature would have appropriated a total of $157 million in construction money since 2012. That is more than enough funds to build up the classrooms, gym, cafeteria, and more,” said Ing. “The challenge now is making sure the executive branch and the DOE spends the money before it lapses. That’s where I could use some help from community members.”

The budget now moves to the Senate for their consideration, then will head to the governor’s desk.